I think 'deluxe' albums can be split down into 4 groups:

 

Group 1

On the same day, 2 versions of the album are released, the standard and a deluxe version with say a DVD or maybe a book or maybe coming in an unique box

 

Group 2

A "collector's edition" released 10+ years after the original album, with an extra disc of b-sides or other rarities

 

Group 3

A deluxe album released 4 months after the original release with a 2nd disc of bonus tracks, of which some might not be available online to buy track-by-track

 

Group 4

Special editions of albums sold directly by the band's website and not available elsewhere. (i.e. In Rainbows Boxset)

So are they worth it?

 

I personally can't stand group 3 albums, as they put 2 fingers up at the fans who rushed out and got the original album, only to find a new better version is out later which they need to re-buy to get the bonus tracks.

They're a total con, basically.;)

don't the third group then is like the viva la vida or death and all his friends re-edition once the ep has been released then?

 

:thinking:

Ari, In a way yes.

 

Although the EP was available to purchase elsewhere on it's own which doesn't make it that bad

They're a total con, basically.;)

 

Even the 2nd group?

 

I put across the Legacy Edition of Pacific Ocean Blue by Dennis Wilson, which got released this year after the original CD got deleted in the 1980s?

 

Or maybe the deluxe edition of the U2 albums, with the original CD re-mastered and put together with a disc of b-sides and non-album singles from that era?

 

Deluxe editions of classic albums are not a con for me, if they are done correctly

well i personally think that if i do have all the albums of the band has released, i find a bit a nonsense to buy a deluxe edition which will contain the same tracks the other albums have and are even the same version.. :\

i think it depends how much you like the band and how worth the delixe albums are. for the hardcore fans it's really worth it usually

I don't like 3 and 4, and about the 2 it better comes with an improved cover, and more thatn 2 songs extra to make it worth it

Group 1

 

I like these, especially if they are only a little more than the original. For example with How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, the first edition of the cd was a deluxe edition with a DVD for $9.99. Same price as a regular cd. What I don't like is something that is $5 more expensive for an online code to "exclusive online content". I think they're only worth it if there is a physical bonuse.

 

Group 2

Don't mind these. The U2 ones for example are great. A great oppurtunity to get phsyical copies of b-sides that otherwise would be next to impossible for a casual fan to get without dishing out lots of cash.

 

Group 3

Scam. Whats the point in buying a cd the day it comes out if the band/artist will just try to make a quick buck a few months later.

 

Group 4

Never have run into one of these. No opinion.

I bought the deluxe reissues that the Manics put out cos there were plenty of extra tracks and the interview footage as well. Depends how much interest you have in the band I suppose. If you're just getting into a band and there are deluxe versions of albums out get those!

I think U2 are releasing 5 different versions of their new album when it comes out, all in various shapes and sizes with bonus dvds and books

I bought the deluxe reissues that the Manics put out cos there were plenty of extra tracks and the interview footage as well. Depends how much interest you have in the band I suppose. If you're just getting into a band and there are deluxe versions of albums out get those!

 

And it depends if you already have the album

I think U2 are releasing 5 different versions of their new album when it comes out, all in various shapes and sizes with bonus dvds and books

 

I've read about that as well.

Still haven't seen any official details.

I've read about that as well.

Still haven't seen any official details.

 

From the NME

http://www.nme.com/news/u2/41822

 

From the sounds of it, it looks like both a group 1 (side-by-side general release) and a group 4 (order directly from band's website only)

Yeah, I'm hoping they'll put more details up on U2.com soon.

i think every album release should have the following as the bare minimum:

 

- the CD in enchanced format including a music video, links to extra tracks and wallpapers

- lyric book with at least half decent artwork

- a little explanation of each song just for something to read while listening to the album

- special editions should have making-of footage, interviews on a dvd and some band merchandise.

I hate enhanced formats, some are so annoying when you put the CD into the computer to try and close the pop-up screen.

I think U2 are releasing 5 different versions of their new album when it comes out, all in various shapes and sizes with bonus dvds and books

 

yes, but this is going to be killer. u2 have money, they can make all 5 versions interesting, trust me.

 

and also, they are one of the rare band nowadays, that 'survived' without splitting up, reunions and bullshits. like the cure. they are just worth it man.

I hate enhanced formats, some are so annoying when you put the CD into the computer to try and close the pop-up screen.

 

I agree. My computer sounds uber angry whenever I put a enhanced cd in. I would prefer a unique code or something in the album with a link to access.

 

yes, but this is going to be killer. u2 have money, they can make all 5 versions interesting, trust me.

 

and also, they are one of the rare band nowadays, that 'survived' without splitting up, reunions and bullshits. like the cure. they are just worth it man.

 

Thank goodness...I hope they never break up and reform. That would be embarrassing. Its also cool that they're still putting out albums and touring...but not just Greatest Hits tours.

It's coming out in March right? Although there are a few leaked tracks roaming around. Probably hear more next month.

March 2nd in the UK I do believe. I don't think there are any leaks yet.

Are you going to be good and hold out for the release date mr brigs?

I like it when Deluxe albums come out years after the album release, with a bonus disc of b-sides and outtakes (like what U2, Radiohead, and Depeche Mode have done.) It's even better if they're remastered with better sound. If it falls into that group, I'm always willing to rebuy the album to get the extra stuff.

Are you going to be good and hold out for the release date mr brigs?

 

Yup. I'm usually good when it comes to albums by bands that I really like.

And after listening to the first single from the new U2 album, I swiftly canceled my pre-order. Based on that song, I ain't buying the album.